Investigator & Educator, Equity & Compliance

Rhode Island School of Design (RISD) seeks an Investigator & Educator, Equity & Compliance to join Social Equity & Inclusion.

The Civil Rights Investigator & Educator is responsible for conducting prompt, equitable, and impartial investigations related to civil rights compliance, including but not limited to Title VI, Title VII, Title IX, the Violence Against Women Act (VAWA), the Americans with Disabilities Act/Section 504 (ADA/504), and the Clery Act. This position plays a critical role in ensuring fair treatment for all Parties by maintaining strict neutrality, objectivity, and professionalism throughout all investigative proceedings.

In addition to investigative responsibilities, the role supports education, prevention, and outreach efforts to advance Rhode Island School of Design’s (RISD) commitment to fostering an inclusive, safe, and equitable learning and working environment.

• Serve as the primary investigator or co-investigator as assigned for complaints of discrimination, discriminatory harassment, retaliation, and Title IX prohibited conduct.
• Working within an established process, conduct thorough, unbiased investigations by creating an investigative plan, identifying and interviewing parties and witnesses, gathering and assessing evidence, and applying relevant laws and institutional policies. Implement guidance from the Title IX Coordinator and the Title VI, VII, and ADA/504 Coordinator as appropriate.
• Maintain neutrality at all times while ensuring that all Parties are treated equitably and respectfully throughout the process.
• Partner with campus offices (e.g., Human Resources) for joint investigations as needed, ensuring consistency, fairness, and impartiality.
• Ensure all investigative steps are well-documented, including interview notes, evidence collected, and rationale for determinations of relevancy.
• Prepare comprehensive written investigation reports that clearly identify the allegations under investigation, summarize the procedural history and evidence collected, and outline the findings of fact.
• Provide periodic, timely updates on case progress to the Parties, the Title IX Coordinator, and the Title VI, VII, and ADA/504 Coordinator.

• Assess, design, and deliver prevention and education programs related to bias, discrimination, discriminatory harassment (including sexual misconduct), and Title IX prohibited conduct for all RISD community members on a monthly basis.
• Plan and facilitate educational programs, trainings, and outreach materials to increase awareness and prevention of prohibited conduct.
• Collaborate with campus and community partners to facilitate awareness and prevention efforts.

• Work closely with the Title IX Coordinator and Title VI, VII, and ADA/504 Coordinator to address systemic issues and ensure compliance with all applicable laws and institutional policies.
• Conduct intake meetings assigned by Title IX Coordinator and/or Title VI, VII, ADA/504 Coordinator to gather preliminary information and review resources with individuals filing reports, and implement supportive measures as needed.
• Foster relationships with institutional partners, community organizations, and external agencies to enhance prevention, education, and response efforts.
• Represent the Office of Equity & Compliance at campus events, workshops, and outreach programs.
• Engage in SEI divisional activities including, but not limited to, staff meetings, events, programs, retreats, and trainings.

• Ensure timely tracking of investigations and procedural requirements.
• Monitor compliance with all applicable regulations and College policies.
• Participate in annual recertifications and…